In 1999, Benoît Laval combines his experience in textile engineering with his love for nature and running activities – which he practices since he was 10 years old – to create RaidLight, a French brand specialized in sports goods for Trail running and Orienteering. With design and production tools in one hand, knowledge and sport experience in the other, the desire to develop his own prototypes became quickly obvious for Benoît Laval. Like many brands, RaidLight’s history started in a garage, with about ten products listed in the catalogue, a small website, and two trestles at the finish line of races. 20 years of hard work provided by everyone in the team, and a common passion for running activities, shared with customers and suppliers, converted Raidlight into the reference brand it is today …

In 2016, Raidlight-Vertical joins Groupe ROSSIGNOL, world leader in skiing equipment, based at the bottom of Chartreuse. For Raidlight-Vertical, such venture gives it the means to pursue its growth within a well-established group that has extensive resources ; and in return, it brings Groupe Rossignol the guarantee to have diversified activities and a 4-seasons catalogue dedicated to Trail running and Hiking activities.

In February 2019, following disagreements regarding the group’s strategies, Benoît Laval decides to resign and leaves both Groupe Rossignol and Raidlight. Benoît Laval regains his freedom and is already looking forward to starting new projects, ready to embark on a new journey.

After a world tour and training at HEC, INSEAD, and training as a certified professional coach, Benoit LAVAL takes over the reins of Raidlight as an independent company in August 2020. The RAIDLIGHT adventure goes on…